Home
Education
Asatizah development
Syed Isa Semait Scholarship (SISS)

Syed Isa Semait Scholarship (SISS)

Inspiring excellence in Islamic leadership.

Last updated 8 July 2025

On this page

About SISS

Established in 2015, the Syed Isa Semait Scholarship (SISS) honours the distinguished legacy of Singapore's former Mufti, Shaikh Syed Isa Semait, who was renowned for his scholarly excellence, profound religious leadership, and contributions to interfaith harmony. Initially awarded as a research grant for studies on asatizah and religious matters affecting the Singapore Muslim community, SISS was expanded in 2022 to offer full undergraduate scholarships in Islamic Studies at international universities. The programme aims to nurture promising madrasah graduates through comprehensive development programmes, preparing them for key leadership positions in the religious sector. This initiative continues Shaikh Syed Isa's vision of dedicated service to both the Muslim community and the nation.

Scholarship benefits

Comprehensive financial package

Full coverage of tuition fees and monthly living allowances
Travel benefits including return airfare and travel insurance
Academic essentials: textbook and laptop allowances
Fully funded development programme expenses

Career development opportunities

Structured development programmes locally and overseas focusing on:
- Religious leadership and professional development through sector immersion
- Community engagement and intellectual growth opportunitiest
Priority access to relevant job placements upon graduation

Future growth prospects

Potential for postgraduate scholarship advancement
Pathways to academic research and religious leadership roles

Application details

SISS application requirements

Requirements
Must be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident with minimum 5 years of local residency prior to application Outstanding academic performance throughout full-time madrasah education in Singapore, with excellent O/A-Levels or IB Diploma results Must have graduated from a Singapore madrasah within the past 5 years Must demonstrate strong leadership potential and exemplary personal conduct

Application period

Applications for the SISS scholarship are now closed.

FAQs

"I am hopeful of the many opportunities that the SISS could provide for my growth as a Muslim, with an eventual transition in me being able to contribute back to the Muslim community."

— Alfawzul Kabir, Al-Azhar University (Islamic Theology), 2022 Scholarship Recipient